Description
This No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake is a refreshing and creamy dessert combining the bright flavors of fresh orange juice and zest with a smooth cream cheese filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm days or when you want a hassle-free dessert that requires no oven time, this cheesecake offers a deliciously light and tangy twist on the classic creamsicle flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 200 g (2 cups) graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits
- 75 g (5 tbsp) melted butter
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Filling
- 500 g (2 cups) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp orange extract (optional)
- Orange food coloring (optional)
Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Orange zest or slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, indicating the butter is evenly coated.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated and silky.
- Add Flavorings: Gradually mix in fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract if using. Blend these ingredients until smooth and evenly combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light, airy texture.
- Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the volume and maintaining a fluffy consistency.
- Add Color (Optional): If desired, add a few drops of orange food coloring and lightly mix to give the cheesecake a vibrant orange hue.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 6-8 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavor.
- Serve: Once firmly set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Garnish with whipped cream, fresh orange zest, or orange slices for an attractive presentation. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best natural flavor.
- This cheesecake must be refrigerated for at least 6-8 hours or overnight to properly set.
- Orange food coloring is optional but adds a beautiful creamsicle color.
- If you prefer a firmer crust, toast the graham cracker crumbs lightly before mixing.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with vegan alternatives.
